The Azalea Encore Autumn Empress (Rhododendron 'Conles') is a striking shrub featuring bold pink blooms from spring through fall. Its dense evergreen foliage and compact growth habit make it an excellent choice for adding a pop of color and liveliness to your landscape.

Blooms: Autumn Empress produces plentiful, ruffled clusters of richly pink flowers that create a dramatic and vibrant display from spring to fall. These nectar-rich blossoms attract pollinators and prolong the flowering period, providing a continuous burst of bold color.

Foliage: Its dark green, leathery leaves form a lush, full backdrop that enhances the richness of the blooms. The oval or lance-shaped foliage contributes to the shrub’s tidy, dense appearance, ensuring visual appeal all year round.

Sunlight and Soil: While Encore Azaleas generally prefer partial shade, Autumn Empress can tolerate more sun than traditional azaleas, making it adaptable to various garden conditions. It thrives in well-draining, acidic soil that supports healthy growth and prolific flowering.

Watering: Regular watering is key, particularly during dry spells. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, and mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Size: This compact evergreen shrub typically reaches 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide, making it suitable for borders, containers, or small garden beds where a splash of deep red is desired.

Hardiness: Suitable for USDA zones 6-10, Autumn Empress Azalea is a hardy, dependable performer across a broad range of climates, delivering striking blooms throughout the growing season.

Pruning: Light pruning after flowering encourages a fuller, healthier shape. Avoid heavy pruning late in the season to allow buds to develop for the next flowering cycle.

Fertilizing: Apply Holly Tone fertilizer in spring to promote lush foliage and ensure plentiful, vibrant blooms.

Landscape Use: Autumn Empress’s bold pink blossoms are ideal for enlivening borders, adding color to shaded areas, or creating focal points in containers. Its compact size makes it a versatile choice for mixed beds, woodland gardens, or pollinator-friendly landscapes, infusing your space with long-lasting color.

With its dramatic pink flowers, easy-care nature, and adaptable size, Azalea Encore Autumn Empress is a dependable plant that provides stunning, enduring beauty to any garden setting.